14 Fun Read Aloud Chapter Books for First Grade

Seeking shelter in the middle of a storm, Mona the Mouse finds herself at the whimsical Heartwood Hotel. And just her luck, the grandest hotel in the forest needs a maid. Meeting an array of animal friends, this charming story will teach children the importance of kindness, friendship, and good moral character. Like a warm cup of tea with an acorn soufflé, this heartwarming series will leave you feeling cozy and warm.

When the beloved substitute teacher Ms. Mac suddenly has to leave, the students of Room 26 are stuck with their returning teacher, Mrs. Brisbane. Luckily, Ms. Mac leaves behind their classroom pet hamster, who gets to go home with a student each weekend. Told from the point of view of Humphrey the hamster, this humorous story touches on many big life lessons in age-appropriate and relatable ways. Exploring different upbringings, living conditions, and personal situations, Humphrey finds that with a little effort, he can make a big difference to those around him.

When a mysterious tree house suddenly appears in the Frog Creek Woods, Jack and Annie cannot help but explore it. Little do they know, this is no ordinary tree house. Full of mystery and adventure, children will love traveling through time with this relatable brother and sister duo. One of our all-time favorite children’s book series, this introductory book is a great way to bridge into early chapter books.

Zoey is just a regular science-loving girl until she learns an amazing secret. Her mother has been helping magical animals in their backyard barn. In this introductory book to the series, a sick baby dragon appears and it’s up to Zoey to help. With her sidekick cat, Sassafras, Zoey uses the scientific method and experiments to help these enchanting animals in need.

For a curious mouse named Ralph, life isn’t very exciting in the mouse hole of Room 215. This all changes when a new guest arrives and his shiny red toy motorcycle. Once on board, Ralph goes on the adventure of his life, speeding through the halls of the Mountain View Inn. Escaping mouse-sized perils and dealing with young nosy cousins, children will love taking a ride with this daredevil rodent.

A short read perfect for children who are building their vocabulary, My Father’s Dragon begins with a boy named Elmer who learns of a dragon held captive on Wild Island. Being used by the other animals on the island to transport them back and forth across the river, Elmer knows he has to rescue it. Can Elmer outwit the lion, tigers, and crocodiles? Oh my!

Originally published in 1942 and with 162 books in the series, the Boxcar Children have proved to stand the test of time. Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny are four sibling orphans who are determined to stay together. When the children find an abandoned boxcar in the woods, they decide to turn it into their home. Filled with the love of family and a dose of nostalgia, this book will please everyone your group.

If there’s a problem with children that needs to be solved, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle is the lady to do it. Adored by her young neighbors for her fun-loving ways and even more so by their parents who come to appreciate her nonsensical remedies. Whether not wanting to take a bath or being a picky eater, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has a solution for it!

Mr. Popper finds himself in quite a predicament when a package arrives from Admiral Drake, the famous explorer. To his surprise, there is a live penguin inside. Within a short time he receives a female penguin and eventually has a whole group of them. If your children have ever wanted an unconventional pet, they will love this humorous and classic tale.

Five lucky children win the ultimate treat – a tour of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. All it takes is a golden ticket. A kind child from humble beginnings, Charlie Bucket surprises his family and himself as the fifth and final winner. From magical candies, a team of oompa Loompas, and wonky shenanigans, kids can’t get enough of this famous story from treasured children’s author, Roald Dahl.

The first installment in the Little House on the Prairie Series, Little House in the Big Woods takes readers back to 1871. Living in a log cabin in Wisconsin, readers delve into what pioneer life was like for Laura, her sisters Mary and Carrie, and their parents. Although a simpler time in many ways, children will explore both the hardships and heartwarming aspects of life long ago.

*Parents should know that the story does describe in detail certain aspects of life that may be unpleasant to young children, specifically in regard to the butchering process of animals.

Having a mom as a veterinarian can mean all sorts of surprises, like having a baby skunk enter your home. This is a wonderful surprise to Bixby Alexander Tam, also known as Bat, who decides the kit should stay with him forever. The story follows Bat as he navigates taking care of a baby skunk, school life, and home life on the spectrum.

If you have a housecleaner like Amelia Bedelia, it is in your best interest to make sure things are understood completely before heading out. Taking the literal meanings of things to a hilarious new level, children will crack up at Amelia’s zany antics like “dressing a chicken” or “dusting the furniture.” Luckily, her delicious pies make up for any miscommunications.

Join Sassy and Waldo on a mission to save their owner Stewart from the dreaded place called school. Dressed up in a trench coat, under the alias Salty from Liver, Ohio, these two zany dogs will keep your kids laughing. Filled with engaging illustrations and light-hearted fun, we give this series two paws up.

If you liked these first grade read aloud chapter book recommendations, check out the following links for more homeschooling resources!